I am going to keep my pet in shape in the New Year
Getting man’s best friend in shape usually does not come
across a pet owners mind regularly according to Dr. Tony Lobue of
1.
Give your
pet more exercise
- Work out with your pet. Grabbing a leash and taking your dog for a walk or run is an easy way to get your dog some regular exercise. It is both beneficial to the pet and the pet owner’s health. Playing Frisbee is a low intensity workout, but it will burn tons of calories for you and your dog.
- Take your dog to a local park to play. Many areas are opening dog parks which allow your dog to play with other dogs.
- Take your pet swimming. You don’t actually have to get in the water, but take your dog to a local lake. Bring some toys with you, throw them out into the water and watch your dog chase after them.
2.
Watch what
your pet eats.
- Make sure to feed your dog a healthy and well balanced diet. Most dogs only need to be fed once or twice a day, depending on the size of dog and breed. Try not to feed your dog scraps from the dinner table, as this is often the cause of weight-gain in dogs.
- Put your dog on a diet with less treats if you think it is overweight. Obesity in pets is a big problem today. Maintaining your pet’s weight helps prolong his life, it lowers his risk of diabetes, disease, and depression and it gets rid of walking issues by allowing your dog to become more physically fit.
3.
Keep your
pets teeth clean.
a. The best way to keep a pets teeth clean is brushing their teeth every day. Go to your local pet store for different types of kits with toothbrushes or finger brushes with special paste made for pets. Do not use human toothpaste.
b. Feeding your pet dry food instead of wet food keeps an animal’s teeth cleaner. Some dog foods sell a certain type dedicated to dental health.
c. Chew toys are another good way to keep a pet’s teeth clean.
d. Keeping your pet’s teeth clean can add up to two years on his life!
Then book an appointment with your veterinarian to give your dog a head-to-tail physical exam. Also, discuss the best optimal workout plan for your dog based on health, age, body shape, likes and dislikes.